Part of what makes Rome such a beautiful and distinctive city are the marble monuments and pastel-colored palazzos but there are plenty of green spaces too.
The cartoonish maritime pine trees are just as characteristically Roman as the Colosseum.
Looking for a peaceful escape from the city’s bustle? Rome’s parks offer everything from lush gardens to historic ruins—perfect for every traveler. Check out these 6 parks in Rome, with tips on where to relax, picnic, or soak in sweeping city views.
Top parks in Rome you need to explore
Pincio Gardens
Climb up the winding stone staircase that begins at the edge of the Piazza del Popolo and you will be rewarded by a Western view over the piazza towards San Pietro and as far as the Monte Mario. On a late summer evening you might catch a private fireworks display in the distance.
The park has ancient origins but what you see today was designed by Giuseppe Valadier in the early 1800s. Take the gravel paths through the park and hunt for the unusual water clock or a shady bench. The Pincio Gardens are linked to the vast Villa Borghese park by a pedestrian bridge that crosses over the busy Via del Muro Torto.
Villa Aldobrandini
Villa Aldobrandini is a hanging garden bounded by the traffic clogged via Nazionale on one side and the residential neighborhood of Monti on the other. Up the stairs and past a headless Roman statue or two you will find a slightly neglected space with lush trees, benches to sit and empty fountains where neighbor dogs play off leash.
From the viewpoint at the far edge of the garden you can see the wonky Torre delle Milizi that is inside the Trajan Market, two churches; Santi Domenico and Sisto and Santa Caterina in Magnanapoli and the top of the National Monument of Victor Emmanuel II. A few thousand years ago the space below your feet was once used as warehouses for the Trajan market.
Colle Oppio
Looking for a great view of the the Colosseum? Head to the Colle Oppio one of Rome’s famous 7 hills. In the late spring and summer there are expanses of bright fuchsia bougainvillea hedges growing on ancient walls.
If you are traveling with kids there is small playground next to the ruins of the ancient baths of Trajan and there is often a afternoon pick-up soccer game next to the Fascist era fountain decorated with copies of amphorae. This park is also where you can find Nero’s golden house the Domus Aurea.
Doria Pamphili
If you really want to feel like a Roman head up the hill past the Fontana dell’Acqua Paola or take the number 8 tram through Trastevere (one of Rome’s coolest neighborhoods) to the residential neighborhood of Monteverde to the Villa Doria Pamphilli. This enormous public park has a cafe, jogging paths, yoga classes, and a lot of dogs.
There is plenty of shade and green grass for a lazy picnic. Peer through the locked wrought iron gates into the elaborately manicured gardens of Casino del Bel Respiro that were once part of a country escape for Pope Innocent X in the 1600’s.
Must-See: Parco Savello (The Orange Garden)
This park on the noble Aventine hill as another name. You might have heard it called the Giardini d’Aranci, but the official name is the Parco Savello. The park gets its name from the Savelli family who had a castle here in the 13th century.
If you look you can still see parts of the castle walls. There are plenty of orange trees, which are tremendously fragrant in the late winter and early spring. The real reason to come here is for the sunset view from the terrace.
Giardino di Palazzo Venezia
Hidden away in a palace on the ridiculously hectic Piazza Venezia is a secret oasis. The Giardino di Palazzo Venezia is filled with trees, lush plants, benches and the odd fragment from an ancient sarcophagus.
This a lovely quiet spot to take a break from your site seeing before you head back out into the fray.
FAQ: Parks in Rome
What are the best parks in Rome for families?
Villa Borghese and Villa Doria Pamphili are among the best parks in Rome for families, offering playgrounds, open spaces, and plenty of activities for kids.
Are Rome parks free to enter?
Most parks in Rome, Italy, including Parco Savello and Villa Borghese, are free to enter and open to the public year-round.
What is Parco Savello famous for?
Parco Savello, also known as the Orange Garden, is famous for its stunning panoramic views of Rome and its beautiful orange trees—making it a must-visit park in Rome.
Which Rome parks are best for a picnic?
Villa Borghese, Villa Ada, and Parco degli Acquedotti are top choices for a picnic, offering plenty of shady spots and scenic views.
How do I get to the major parks in Rome?
Most major parks Rome offers are easily accessible by public transport. For example, Villa Borghese is close to the Spagna and Flaminio metro stations, while Parco Savello is a short walk from Circo Massimo.
Update Notice: This post was updated on May 16, 2025.
Wandering through Rome’s stunning green spaces is a treat—but the city’s true flavor lies in its kitchens. After a stroll through the pines and piazzas, join one of our Devour Rome Food Tours and discover the bold, delicious world of cucina Romana. We’ll take you to family-run trattorias, bustling markets, and hidden foodie gems that locals love.
Is that a photo of Via Margutta above the Colosseum?
Yes, you can indeed see a bit of Via Margutta beyond the piazza! 🙂
We always enjoyed the Borghese Gardens , amazing!
Such a beautiful little corner of Rome!